Bank Starts Trust Account For Man Fighting Eviction

July 16, 1985|By Louis Trager of The Sentinel Staff

An Orlando bank set up a trust account Monday for George Townsel, a 102- year-old man facing eviction from his home.

Sun Bank set up the account at the request of Greater Orlando Legal Services, which represents Townsel, and WFTV-Channel 9, whose reports sparked inquiries about helping the southwest Orlando man, said bank official David Walsh. The lawyer for Barnett Mortgage Co., which bought the home at a foreclosure sale, said he has received similar calls.

Barnett foreclosed last year after the mortgage went into default in 1983. Its lawyer, Charles George III, has negotiated settlements under which Townsel's niece was to make up the back payments, but both said she has not been able to follow through. Barnett wanted $7,443 to reinstate the mortgage or $27,643 to sell the house.

George said he still wants to work out a settlement so that Townsel can stay. Otherwise he must leave so the house can be transferred to the Federal Housing Administration, which insured the mortgage.

Donations payable to the George Townsel Fund may be sent in care of Sun Bank Trust Account, P.O. Box 3631, Orlando 32802. The money will be invested in U.S. government securities and used to help Townsel stay in his house or find new housing, Walsh said.